Where did these dogs sit?

Victorian households placed these ceramic figures in pairs at either end of a mantelpiece above the fireplace. They faced inwards toward each other to frame the hearth and domestic interior space.

What animals do they show?

The pieces on this page portray Staffordshire spaniels and poodles in seated positions. Potters modelled these breeds to satisfy Victorian desires for domestic animal companionship in decorative form.

Are they sold as pairs?

Many listings feature matching pairs designed to sit symmetrically on a mantel or shelf. Larger collections of four figures also appear for those wanting a grouped display.

What material is underneath?

The figures consist of earthenware, a traditional pottery material shaped in moulds. Potters covered this clay body with glaze and enamel paint to finish the surface.

Home > Victorian Mantelpiece Dogs > Page 2

Victorian Mantelpiece Dogs

23 items · page 2 of 2

← Page 2 of 2 →

Victorian mantelpiece dogs are classic ceramic figures that bring character to a hearth, and these nineteenth century pairs and collections are what every traditional interior needs.